MINUTES - Nebraska · MINUTES . COORDINATING ... proposal to offer Reading Recovery ... Dr. Kay...

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MINUTES

COORDINATING COMMISSION FOR POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION April 25, 2013

Southeast Community College Student Services Division, Room V103-V104

8800 O Street Lincoln, Nebraska

Public notice of time and place of regular meeting was given to Commission members, institutional representatives, news media, the Legislative Fiscal Office and the Department of Administrative Services. CALL TO ORDER AND INTRODUCTIONS Chair Ron Hunter called the meeting to order at 9:04 a.m. and asked for introductions. Commissioners Present Colleen Adam Mary Lauritzen Clark Anderson Eric Seacrest

Riko Bishop Dr. Joyce Simmons Dr. Deborah Frison W. Scott Wilson Dr. Ron Hunter John Winkleblack

Commissioners Absent

Carol Zink Commission Staff Present Dr. Kathleen Fimple Dr. Barbara McCuen Dr. Marshall Hill Helen Pope

Jason Keese Mike Wemhoff

NOTICE OF MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE COORDINATING COMMISSION FOR POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION WILL HOLD A MEETING ON April 25, 2013. THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT 9:00 A.M. AND ADJOURN AT APPROXIMATELY 12:00 P.M. AN AGENDA IS MAINTAINED IN THE COMMISSION OFFICE, 140 N. 8TH STREET, SUITE 300, LINCOLN, NEBRASKA.

DR. RON HUNTER, CHAIR

Public notice of meeting

Meeting called to order at 9:04 a.m.

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GREETING BY DR. JACK HUCK, PRESIDENT OF SOUTHEAST COMMUNITY COLLEGE Dr. Jack Huck, President of Southeast Community College thanked the Commissioners, staff, and guests for coming and welcomed everyone to the new student services center at Southeast Community College. He stated that the new facility has gone well beyond their expectations in terms of the services it provides for their students. Following the meeting, Commissioners and staff will be part of the audience at a themed luncheon prepared and served by the Southeast Community College culinary program students. Dr. Huck distributed a handout to the Commissioners, Placement: A Report on 2011-2012 Graduates of Southeast Community College, noting SCC is one of the few postsecondary institutions that makes the commitment to track every one of their graduates every year. The placement report is the result of that tracking process. He reported that the vast majority of SCC students tend to stay in southeast Nebraska and go to work in their local economy or further their education. Dr. Huck also shared the publication Voluntary Framework of Accountability At-A-Glance. This document was facilitated by two organizations, the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) and the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT). He said that the traditional measures for looking at success factors for postsecondary graduates do not fit community colleges well. This at-a-glance data represents a broader and more comprehensive measure of student progress, outcomes, and success. Dr. Huck stated that the process was developed and beta tested by a number of community colleges throughout the country within the last year. They are now going to do “super beta testing” on a nationwide basis. The AACC and the ACCT, the two sponsoring organizations, have awarded one national grant for comprehensive state-wide participation by the community colleges in a chosen state. Nebraska received that grant. All of the community colleges in Nebraska will be a part of the final beta testing for the voluntary framework of accountability. Commissioner Winkleblack joined the meeting at 9:08 am. MINUTES OF MARCH 14, 2013 COMMISSION MEETING Chair Hunter noted that the minutes of the March 14th Commission meeting have been amended to not use the wording “adjourned” when referring to break and lunch times. Commissioner Simmons moved that the March 14, 2013 minutes be approved with the submitted changes. Commissioner Anderson seconded the motion. A roll call vote was taken, with all Commissioners present voting yes. CHAIRPERSON’S REPORT Other than indicating the spring weather and needed rain are welcome, Chair Hunter did not have a report.

Dr. Jack Huck, President of SCC

Minutes of March 14, 2013 Commission meeting approved

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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT Dr. Hill reported that Kadi Lukesh, Bookkeeper/Budget Coordinator & Office Manager, was not at the meeting to present the quarterly budget report. Her mother passed away earlier today. Dr. Hill presented the quarterly budget report, noting that our budget will be reduced by approximately $12,000 with the passing of LB 194. We are in good shape in terms of operating within our budget. He answered questions from the Commissioners. Jason Keese, Public Information and Special Projects Coordinator, briefed the Commissioners on current legislative bills of interest. A summary sheet was distributed to Commissioners outlining the information discussed. Mr. Keese noted that we started the session tracking 20 higher education bills; we are now down to tracking 7 bills, with 6 of them likely to be passed. There are 20 days left in the session. Dr. Hill reported that Dr. Carna Pfeil, Associate Director for Finance and Administration, and Ben Civic, College Access Challenge Grant Program Director, were not at the meeting as they were attending the College Access Challenge Grant Advisory Meeting in Washington, D.C. On Friday, April 19th, Dr. Barbara McCuen, Research Coordinator, presented the 2013 Nebraska Higher Education Progress Report to the Legislature’s Education Committee. Dr. Hill stated that all committee members were present and asked good questions. Dr. Hill discussed the bill on state authorization reciprocity. Last week he attended a meeting in Indianapolis to kick off starting reciprocity agreements among states. He was pleased that representatives from 47 states were in attendance. PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS OF GENERAL CONCERN There was no testimony regarding Matters of General Concern. Chair Hunter closed the public hearing on Matters of General Concern. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS Metropolitan Community College – Follow-up Reports on existing instructional programs – Diesel Technology (AAS, Diploma), and Welding Technology (AAS, Certificate) With no discussion on the Consent Agenda Items, Chair Hunter recommended to move forward with the vote. Commissioner Seacrest made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda items - Metropolitan Community College - Follow-up Reports on existing instructional programs. Continue the programs – Diesel Technology (AAS, Diploma), and Welding Technology (AAS, Certificate).

Dr. Hill speaks about quarterly budget report

Jason Keese reports on current legislative bills of interest

Dr. Hill notes that Dr. Pfeil and Mr. Civic are attending the CACG Advisory Meeting

Dr. Hill reports that Dr. McCuen presented 2013 Progress Report to Legislature’s Education Committee

Dr. Hill discusses state online authorization

Public Hearing on matters of general concern

Consent Agenda

MCC – Diesel Technology (AAS, Diploma) and Welding Technology (AAS, Certificate)

MCC – Diesel Technology (AAS, Diploma) and Welding Technology (AAS, Certificate) approved

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Commissioner Simmons seconded the motion. A roll call vote was taken, with all Commissioners present voting yes. PUBLIC HEARING ON BUDGET, CONSTRUCTION, AND FINANCIAL AID COMMITTEE ITEMS William Conley, Vice Chancellor for Business and Finance at the University of Nebraska at Omaha introduced himself and stated he was present to answer any questions the Commissioners had in regard to the Biomechanics Research Facility. Chair Hunter closed the public hearing on Budget, Construction, and Financial Aid Committee items. BUDGET, CONSTRUCTION, AND FINANCIAL AID COMMITTEE University of Nebraska at Omaha Dodge Campus – Biomechanics research facility operating and maintenance request Mike Wemhoff, Facilities Officer, presented the proposal to the Commissioners. He noted that the project is being constructed with private donations and the University is requesting state appropriations to operate and maintain the facility. Commission approval is requested for an increase in appropriation or expenditure of state tax funds for the facilities operation and maintenance. There was discussion regarding the O&M funding, and Mr. Conley answered questions from the Commissioners. Commissioner Bishop, on behalf of the Budget, Construction, and Financial Aid Committee, moved to approve the University of Nebraska at Omaha Dodge Campus’s Biomechanics research facility operating and maintenance request. A roll call vote was taken. Commissioner Simmons voted no; all other Commissioners present voted yes. PUBLIC HEARING ON ACADEMIC PROGRAMS COMMITTEE ITEMS Dr. Laurie Becvar, Senior Associate Provost and Graduate Dean, University of South Dakota, introduced herself and Gary Girard, Director of Off-Campus and Distance Learning. They were present to answer questions the Commissioners might have in regard to the University of South Dakota’s proposal to offer Reading Recovery® classes in Lincoln public schools, to offer a class in Ponca, Nebraska associated with the Missouri River Institute, and to extend a distance learning opportunity in speech language pathology in rural Nebraska. Dr. Sherri Jones, Professor and Chair of Special Education and Communication Disorders, at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, stated she was present to clarify some information about UNL’s program in speech language pathology, express concerns about the proposal on the table regarding the University of South Dakota, and answer questions the Commissioners might have for her.

Public Hearing on Budget, Construction, and Financial Aid Committee

UNO – Dodge Campus – Biomechanics research facility operating and maintenance request

Mr. Wemhoff presents the proposal

UNO – Dodge Campus – Biomechanics research facility operating and maintenance request approved

Public Hearing on Academic Programs Committee

Dr. Laurie Becvar and Gary Girard from the University of South Dakota

Dr. Sherri Jones from UNL

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Dr. Kay Maize, Provost, and Dr. Marcia Kube, Graduate Nursing Program Director, at Bryan College of Health Sciences, came forward to support two proposals for new programs from Bryan College of Health Sciences and answer questions from the Commissioners. Dr. Gregory Karst, Assistant Dean for Academic and Student Affairs for the school of allied health professions at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, introduced himself. He and James Temme, Radiation Science Director, were present to support the UNMC Radiologic Science Technology Graduate Certificates proposal. Chair Hunter closed the public hearing on Academic Programs Committee items. Chair Hunter called for a break at 11:08 a.m. The meeting resumed at 11:15 a.m. ACADEMIC PROGRAMS COMMITTEE Commissioner Lauritzen presented the Academic Programs Committee information in Commissioner Zink’s absence. University of South Dakota - Proposal for a Recurrent Authorization to Operate in Nebraska – Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology, Reading Recovery® (three graduate courses), and Science, Culture and History of the Missouri River (course) Commissioner Lauritzen commented that the Academic Programs Committee found the opportunities offered by USD do not appear to be readily available to the target audiences in any other format. The committee recommended approval of the proposed recurrent authorization to operate in Nebraska for Reading Recovery® and Science, Culture and History of the Missouri River. For the application to offer the Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology the committee had no recommendation. Commissioner Lauritzen, on behalf of the Academic Programs Committee, moved to approve the recurrent authorization to operate, through May 1, 2018, for two of the three proposals from the University of South Dakota: Reading Recovery® (three graduate courses), and Science, Culture and History of the Missouri River (course). A roll call vote was taken, with all Commissioners present voting yes. Since the Academic Programs Committee had no recommendation on the application to offer the Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology, Chair Hunter called for a motion and second from the Commissioners. Commissioner Seacrest noted that the reason there was not a recommendation was because the Commissioners were waiting to obtain more information from all parties involved.

Dr. Kay Maize and Dr. Marcia Kube from Bryan College of Health Sciences

Dr. Gregory Karst and James Temme from UNMC

USC – Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology, Reading Recovery® (three graduate courses) and Science, Culture and History of the Missouri River (course)

USC –Reading Recovery® (three graduate courses) and Science, Culture and History of the Missouri River (course) approved

Chair Hunter calls for a motion on USC – Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology

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Dr. Kathleen Fimple, Academic Programs Officer, presented information on the program stating that all written communications from both sides of this issue were given to the Commissioners for review. Commissioner Seacrest moved to include the University of South Dakota’s Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology in the recurrent authorization to operate, valid through May 1, 2018. Commissioner Anderson seconded the motion. A roll call vote was taken, with all Commissioners present voting yes. Bryan College of Health Sciences – Application to Modify a Previous Authorization to Operate in Nebraska - Education Doctorate in Nursing Education, and Baccalaureate of Science in Health Professions-Healthcare Studies Dr. Fimple presented the application to Commissioners. Commissioner Lauritzen, on behalf of the Academic Programs Committee, moved to include Bryan College of Health Science’s Education Doctorate in Nursing Education and Baccalaureate of Science in Health Professions-Healthcare Studies in the college’s recurrent authorization to operate. A roll call vote was taken, with all Commissioners present voting yes. Annual Reports from Institutions Holding Recurrent Authorizations to Operate in Nebraska Dr. Fimple stated this report stems from a change in statute requiring all institutions the Commission has authorized to provide a yearly report to the Commission. St. Gregory the Great Seminary is missing from the list, as Monsignor Folda has been out of town due to his new appointment as Bishop of the Diocese of Fargo, North Dakota. He has assured Dr. Fimple that the report will be coming. University of Nebraska Medical Center – Proposal for New Instructional Programs - Radiologic Science Technology Graduate Certificates, a) Cardiovascular Interventional Technology, b) Computed Tomography, c) Magnetic Resonance Imaging, d) Diagnostic Medical Sonography, e) Nuclear Medicine Technology, and f) Radiation Therapy Dr. Fimple presented the proposal to Commissioners. Commissioner Lauritzen, on behalf of the Academic Programs Committee, moved to approve UNMC’s proposal for New Instructional Programs - Radiologic Science Technology Graduate Certificates, a) Cardiovascular Interventional Technology, b) Computed Tomography, c) Magnetic Resonance Imaging, d) Diagnostic Medical Sonography, e) Nuclear Medicine Technology, and, f) Radiation Therapy, on the condition that UNMC receive approval from the Higher Learning Commission. A roll call vote was taken, with all Commissioners present voting yes.

Dr. Fimple presents information

USC – Master of Arts in Speech- Language Pathology approved

Bryan College of Health Sciences – Education Doctorate in Nursing Education, and Baccalaureate of Science in Health Professions – Healthcare Studies

Dr. Fimple presents the application

Bryan College of Health Sciences – Education Doctorate in Nursing Education, and Baccalaureate of Science in Health Professions – Healthcare Studies approved

Annual Reports from Institutions Holding Recurrent Authorizations to Operate in Nebraska

Dr. Fimple presents the report

UNL – Radiologic Science Technology Graduate Certificates

Dr. Fimple presents the proposal

UNL – Radiologic Science Technology Graduate Certificates approved

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Existing Program Review Executive Director Dr. Marshall Hill approved continuation of the following existing programs, whose productivity fell within the Commission thresholds or provided significant justification if below the thresholds. Information Items: University of Nebraska at Kearney Aviation Systems Management – BS Broadcasting – BS/BA Journalism – BS/BA Multimedia – BS/BA Radiography – BS Respiratory Therapy – BS Medical Technology – BS Health Sciences – BS University of Nebraska at Omaha Aviation Administration – BGS, BS Healthcare Administration – BGS Nonprofit Administration – BGS Public Administration – MPA, PhD Public Management – Graduate Certificate Gerontology – Undergraduate Certificate, BGS, Graduate Certificate, MA Theatre – BGS, BA, MA Creative Writing – BGS, BFA Writing – MFA Art – BGS Art History – BA Studio Art – BFA, BA Music – BGS, BM, MM Neuroscience – BS University of Nebraska Medical Center Interdepartmental Medical Sciences Area – MS, PhD Nuclear Medicine – BS RST Radiation Therapy – BS RST Diagnostic Medical Sonography – BS RST Radiography – BS RST Medical Nutrition – Graduate Certificate Mid-Plains Community College Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic – AAS, Diploma Northeast Community College EMT / Paramedic – AAS Southeast Community College Emergency Medical Services / Paramedic – AAS

Existing Program Review approved by the Executive Director

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2011-2012 Programs Requiring Additional Review

University of Nebraska Medical Center Pre-Medical Science – Graduate Certificate Radiation Oncology Physics – Graduate Certificate Health Promotion & Disease Prevention Research – PhD Health Services Research Administration & Policy – PhD

University of Nebraska at Omaha Urban Studies – MS

Western Nebraska Community College Emergency Medical Technician – AOS, Certificate

Dr. Fimple presented information on the programs requiring additional review. Commissioner Lauritzen, on behalf of the Academic Programs Committee, moved to approve continuation of the 2011-2012 Programs Requiring Additional Review, with UNO providing a report on enrollments and graduation rates due 9-30-15, and WNCC providing a report on graduation/completion rates and status of program accreditation due 06-30-14. A roll call vote was taken, with all Commissioners present voting yes. Information Items: Report on name changes, deletions, reasonable and moderate extensions, and other institutional activities relating to existing programs Program Name Changes

1. SCC – Chrysler College Automotive to MOPAR-Chrysler/Dodge/RAM/Jeep College Automotive

2. SCC – Machine Tool Technology to Precision Machining and Automation Technology

3. CCC – Business Technology (diploma) to Administrative Assistant (diploma)

4. CCC – Paralegal (diploma) to Legal Office (diploma)

5. CCC – Business Design Concepts (certificate) to Business Imaging (certificate)

6. SCC – Energy Generation Operations-Biofuels focus to Energy Generation Operations-Process Operations-Biofuels focus Program Deletions

1. SCC – Parts Marketing and Management (AAS, Diploma) 2. SCC – Intelligent Machine Integration (Certificate) 3. CSC – Library Information Management (BA/BSE) 4. CCC – Business Administration-Accounting Clerk (Certificate) 5. CCC – Business Technology

• Legal Office Specialization (AAS) • Software Integration (Diploma)

UNMC – Pre-Medical Science UNMC - Radiation Oncology Physics UNMC - Health Promotion & Disease Prevention Research UNMC - Health Services Research Administration & Policy UNO– Urban Studies – MS

WNCC – Emergency Medical Technician – AOS, Certificate

Dr. Fimple presents program information

UNMC – Pre-Medical Science UNMC - Radiation Oncology Physics, UNMC - Health Promotion & Disease Prevention Research, UNMC - Health Services Research Administration & Policy, UNO – Urban Studies, and WNCC – Emergency Medical Technician programs continuation approved Program Name Changes Program Deletions

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6. CCC – Construction Technology-Construction Electrician (Diploma) 7. CCC – Information Technology

• Computer Programming (AAS Specialization, Certificate) • Database Support (AAS Specialization, Certificate) • Information Security Assurance (AAS Specialization,

Certificate) • Technical Support (AAS Specialization, Certificate) • Web Developer (AAS Specialization, Certificate)

8. SCC – Energy Generation Operations-Wind Energy focus 9. SCC – Office Professional-Medical Transcription focus

Program Focus Change 1. SCC – Precision Machining and Automation Technology

a. Go from three focuses to two: a Tool Maker focus, and a CNC and Automation focus. (Old focuses were: Diemaker, Moldmaker, Tool & Diemaker)

Reasonable and Moderate Extensions

1. WNCC – AS Emphasis Areas in Rangeland Management & Agricultural Science

2. WNCC – Emergency Medical Technician (AOS) 3. CCC – Automotive Technology

• Engine Performance (Certificate) • Brakes/Steering/Suspension (Certificate) • Automotive Technology (Certificate) • Engine Repair (Certificate)

4. CCC – Criminal Justice

• Police Field Services (Diploma) • Correctional Science (Certificate) • Police Science (Certificate) • Private Security (Certificate)

5. CCC – Diesel Technology - Diesel Power Generation Specialization (AAS)

6. CCC – Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (Certificate) 7. CCC – Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts – Pastry

Specialization (AAS) 8. CCC – Information Technology

• Information Technology Developer Specialization (AAS) • Information Technology Support Specialist Specialization

(AAS) 9. SCC – Energy Generation Operations-Military focus

Dual Degree Program

1. UNO & UNMC – Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Public Health (MPH) Department Name Change

1. UNO – Department of Educational Administration and Supervision to Department of Educational Leadership

Program Deletions, continued

Program Focus Change

Reasonable and Moderate Extensions

Dual Degree Program

Department Name Change

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EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Approve amended Commission meeting schedule for 2013 Chair Hunter noted the new Commission 2013 meeting schedule includes adding a meeting and changing two dates in order to meet with the University of Nebraska Board of Regents and the Nebraska Board of Education. Chair Hunter, on behalf of the Executive Committee, moved to approve the amended Commission meeting schedule for 2013. A roll call vote was taken, with all Commissioners present voting yes. FUTURE MEETINGS The next Commission meeting will be held Thursday, June 13, 2013 at Western Nebraska Community College in Scottsbluff, NE. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS Commissioners Seacrest and Winkleblack offered to plan a gathering the evening before the June 13th Commission meeting in Scottsbluff. Commissioner Lauritzen stated that while researching the study of the University of South Dakota, they talked about the bridge over Vermillion to Nebraska. She thought of former Commissioner Helen Morten, who would have been a great resource in that discussion. Commissioner Seacrest reported that Chancellor Harold Maurer at the University of Nebraska Medical Center is retiring, noting that he has been one of the great czars for higher education in Nebraska. Dr. Hill stated that the Commission will send him a letter of congratulations. Commissioner Lauritzen added that it was reported in the Omaha World-Herald that UNMC is the largest employer in Omaha. Chair Hunter noted that Dr. Randy Rhine will be inaugurated as the 11th president of Chadron State College this week. Commissioner Simmons provided fellow Commissioners a commentary article by Fareed Zakaria titled The Thin-Envelope Crisis: America’s universities are rejecting the wrong kids – and undermining the idea of merit. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 11:54 a.m.

2013 Commission meeting schedule

2013 Commission meeting schedule approved

Next Commission Meeting: June 13, 2013

Commissioners Seacrest and Winkleblack discuss plans for Scottsbluff meeting

Commissioner Lauritzen on USD

Commissioner Seacrest reports UNMC Chancellor retiring

Chair Hunter notes Dr. Rhine’s inauguration at CSC

Commissioner Simmons presents article by Fareed Zakaria

Meeting adjourned at 11:54 a.m.

Committee Draft

Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education—June 13, 2013

Organizational Management—MS Wayne State College

Follow-up Report Background

• In December 2005 the Commission approved as a new program the master of science in organizational management at Wayne State College and Chadron State College. (Shortly thereafter, the program was approved for Peru State.)

• In 2010 the Commission reviewed the program as part of its regular program review process. The program averaged 267 SCH/FTE and 2.5 graduates per year for the two years it had been offered. (Commission thresholds are 300 and 5.0, respectively).

• Wayne reported that the department wanted to start the program slowly and so hadn’t actively marketed it. The college had also added a concentration in information technology in 2008 that was anticipated to attract additional students.

• The Commission continued the program, with a report on student demand.

Summary of WSC’s Report • The average number of graduates was 7.2, with no graduates in the first year

covered in the reporting period (2006-07). There were 13 graduates in the last reporting year (2010-11). The average SCH/FTE was 369.

• The faculty are brainstorming methods to market the sports and recreation management concentration. The information technology concentration is attracting students without marketing; the department receives five to ten inquiries per semester.

• The program is available entirely online, making it attractive to employed students seeking to upgrade or expand their education and skills. It is especially appealing to students who are employed in small businesses where there are few specialists and a broader knowledge base is desirable.

Committee Comment Both the average number of graduates and the SCH/FTE exceed Commission thresholds, apparently without marketing. Committee Recommendation Continue. [The next regular program review is due June 30, 2016.]

Committee Draft

Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education – June 13, 2013

Molecular Biology—BS

University of Nebraska at Kearney Follow-up Report

Background • In 2009 the Commission approved a new bachelor of science degree in

molecular biology at UNK. The Commission requested a report on program enrollments.

Summary of UNK’s Report

• The degree was first available for incoming freshmen in fall 2010. Therefore, the first students to graduate should be in spring 2014. One student, who transferred into the program, was scheduled to graduate in December 2012. He planned to enter a doctoral program in microbial genetics.

• At the program’s inception in fall 2010, eight students declared a molecular biology major. In 2011 there were nine majors and in fall 2012 there were ten.

• Bruner Science Hall renovation has been completed, with two dedicated molecular biology teaching labs and several dedicated research labs. In 2010 the dean awarded the program $30,270 for new equipment.

• Two new faculty members have been hired this year—a microbiologist/molecular biologist and a zoologist/molecular biologist.

• The program is growing with the only advertising being word-of-mouth and the program’s web page. UNK plans to advertise statewide and nationally.

Committee Comment The number of enrolled students suggests that the program will meet the Commission’s threshold of an average of seven students graduating over a five year period. This won’t be reflected in the next regular program review because that review is due in just over a year. Committee Recommendation Continue the program. The next regular program review is due June 30, 2014 when other biology programs are reviewed.

Committee Draft

Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education – June 13, 2013

Welding Technology-AAS, AOS, Diploma, Certificate Western Nebraska Community College

Follow-up Report

Background: • 1994 During the first program review WNCC reported an average of 4.2 graduates. • 1995 WNCC closed the welding program on the Sidney campus and moved it to

Scottsbluff. • 2002 During the second seven-year review cycle, WNCC reported that the program

produced an average of 441 credit hours, with a SCH/FTE of 295. The average number of graduates was 1.8 from all four award levels. (Commission thresholds are 275 and 10.0, respectively.) Given the declining number of graduates, the Commission postponed action with a report on the need and demand for the program.

• 2003 The report noted increasing enrollments, from 19 in fall 2001 to 34 in spring 2003. The Commission accepted the report with a follow-up report on enrollments and number of graduates.

• 2006 WNCC reported that enrollments had stabilized between 90 and 100 students. SCH/FTE averaged 276 for the previous three years. Two students graduated in 2004-05; there were six declared majors. The college had also initiated dual enrollment welding courses. The Commission accepted the report.

• 2010 The third seven-year review was completed. WNCC reported a four-year average of 4.75 graduates and an SCH/FTE average of 342. The commission continued the program with a report on student demand and number of completers.

Summary of Institution's Report:

• For the three years from 2009-10 through 2011-12 the average SCH/FTE was 346 and average number of graduates was 5.0. However, during the last year of the period (2011-12) there were seven graduates (3 diplomas and 4 certificates).

• In 2009 and 2010 there were 14 students enrolled each year. In 2011 there were 20 enrolled in the program and in 2012 there were 18.

• Students are not completing the courses needed for a degree. They obtain the welding skills needed for employment and leave the program.

• The college is working with the Pine Ridge Job Corps to offer welding as a dual credit program there.

Committee Comment: Students taking only enough classes to obtain employment is a chronic condition in high-demand technology fields at community colleges. The increase in enrollments for the past two years and the increase in awards in the last year are encouraging. Committee Recommendation: Continue the program. The next regular program review is due June 30, 2015.

Committee Draft

Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education – June 13, 2013 1

Application to Modify a Recurrent Authorization to Operate

Institution: Omaha School of Massage and Healthcare of

Herzing University

Program: Chiropractic Technician

Degree: Associate of Science (AS) and Diploma

Institution’s Existing Degree(s) in Same or Similar Discipline:

AS and Diploma in therapeutic massage

Proposal Received by Commission: May 20, 2013

Proposed Start Date: Fall 2013

Background Herzing University has operated for over 45 years as a private, career-oriented campus with its home office and online programs based in Milwaukee. There are currently eleven physical campuses in eight states with programs ranging from certificates to master’s degrees in business, computer technology, public safety, design, nursing, and health care. Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. In 2008 Herzing University purchased the Omaha School of Massage Therapy. The Commission subsequently approved Herzing to offer AS degrees in therapeutic massage, medical assisting, and medical billing and insurance coding in Omaha as well as a BS degree in health information management. In 2010 the Commission authorized (with stipulations) three diplomas in computer networking, and five BS and five AS degrees in business and computer fields as well as graphic design and criminal justice. Applications for programs in physical therapist assistant, nursing, and surgical technology were withdrawn by the institution due to insufficient evidence of ability to provide clinical sites. This proposal is for authorization for Herzing University to offer an AS and diploma in chiropractic technician. REVIEW CRITERIA A. The financial soundness of the institution and its capability to fulfill its proposed commitments and sustain its operations

Herzing University provided audited financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2011. The university’s composite financial score in 2010, according to the U.S. Department of Education, was 3.0, falling

within the Department’s acceptable ratings of 1.5 to 3.0. (The scale is based on financial soundness, operating funds, and debt. The range is -1.0 to 3.0; the higher the score, the better

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Committee Draft


the institution’s financial status.) The 2010 information is the most recent available to Commission staff, but the institution reports a rating of 3.0 for 2011. The audit noted that Herzing University meets the “90 percent rule” of the United States Department of Education. The rule requires that an institution’s revenue from Title IV (federal financial aid programs) cannot exceed 90% of its total revenue. For 2011, Herzing’s percentage was 84.0, putting it in compliance with the rule. Costs: for the diploma program—tuition: $17,670; for the AS program—tuition: $26,505; fees: $75 application fee; all other fees are included in tuition. For comparison, tuition and fees for an AAS degree in medical assisting at Wright Career College in Omaha is approximately $30,500. B. The quality of the programs offered, including courses, programs of instruction, degrees, any necessary clinical placements, and the institution’s ability to generate and sustain enrollment

Curriculum – The proposed diploma program would require 44 semester credit hours: 42 in the discipline and two in professional development. In addition to the chiropractic courses, the curriculum includes 8 hours of

anatomy and physiology, a course on healthcare law and ethics, and two internships—one for chiropractic office procedures and one for chiropractic insurance application. There is no practicum required. The AS program consists of the same 44 hours for the diploma plus a minimum of 29 hours in general education courses, totaling 63 hours for the degree. The general education curriculum includes courses in computer applications, English composition, information literacy, math, speech, science, social or behavioral science, and critical thinking. Herzing is contacting chiropractic clinics to secure internship sites. To date, four have been contacted in the Omaha metro area. The state of Nebraska does not require licensure for chiropractic technicians—only for doctors of chiropractic. However, the curriculum for the proposed program was developed for the Herzing campus in Brookfield, Wisconsin, where the state Department of Safety and Professional Services regulates the field. The curriculum was designed to meet Wisconsin’s requirements. Enrollment – Herzing estimates that each program would enroll 15 to 20 students each year. Since the certificate program ladders into the AS, the certificate program should have larger enrollments at first, while the degree program would show enrollments after a few years. There are no other institutions in Omaha that offer a program in chiropractic technician. The Commission staff consulted the Nebraska Department of Labor’s website, but there was no occupational category for chiropractic technician or assistant. Credit – The awarding of credit is based on the following: lecture courses: 15 contact hours for each semester credit hour; science and healthcare labs: 30 contact hours for each semester credit hour; externship, practicum, clinicals: 45 contact hours for each semester credit hour.

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C. The quality and adequacy of teaching faculty, library services, and support services

Faculty – The core courses and general education courses, when cohort size warrants, would be taught face-to-face by faculty working from the Omaha campus. Students would also have the option to complete the

general education courses online. Herzing intends to hire faculty for the proposed Omaha programs once the Commission has given approval to their application. Faculty would be hired according to university policy:

Undergraduate faculty teaching courses in disciplines supporting the core of vocational allied health programs which do not have a bachelor’s degree in that discipline at Herzing University must have at least a bachelor’s degree and expert knowledge in the teaching discipline.

College transcripts were provided for nine faculty members currently teaching in Omaha. Three have master’s degrees, two hold PhDs, one has an EdD in progress, two are DCs (doctor of chiropractic), and one holds a BS and is a licensed massage therapist. Faculty teaching online courses are part of Herzing University’s Online Campus, based in Milwaukee. Herzing states that all distance learning faculty are provided training on distance learning methodologies and pedagogical support in developing course materials. They are also monitored in the quality of delivery of their online courses by their department chair. The chair logs onto each course section weekly and provides feedback on the quality of student interaction to both the faculty member and the dean. Library – Herzing reports that the Omaha library holds many of the needed materials on topics such as health issues, injury prevention, kinesiology, pathology, sports medicine, and wellness. Upon receiving CCPE approval, additional materials specific to chiropractic would be purchased. In addition to the local library, students would be able to check out books from any Herzing University library through interlibrary loan. There is also online material available through two library consortia, NebraskAccess and the Library and Information Resources Network (LIRN). LIRN contains thousands of titles, many available in full-text form. Computers are available in the library and student break room with Internet access. Wireless access is available throughout the facility. Support Services -- The staff includes a registrar and personnel for educational funding and career services. Educational funding includes counseling on financial literacy and borrowing responsibility as well traditional financial aid assistance. At the career services center students receive tutoring and assistance in resume writing, honing interview skills, and identifying employment opportunities. D. The specific locations where programs will be offered or planned locations and a demonstration that facilities are adequate at the locations for the programs to be offered

The Omaha School of Massage and Healthcare of Herzing University is located in southwest Omaha and would house the proposed programs as well as those that have previously been approved for that location. The campus consists of two buildings. The proposed programs would be located in the “Annex” which was the home for the medical assisting and insurance billing and coding programs. Those two programs are no longer offered face-to-face in Omaha (but are

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available online). The therapeutic massage program currently uses the Annex in the morning and part of the space in the afternoon. The proposed programs would have classes scheduled in the afternoon so that there would not be a space conflict. E. Assurances regarding transfer of credits earned in the program to the main campus of such institution [if applicable] and clear and accurate representations about the transferability of credits to other institutions located in Nebraska and elsewhere

Credits would transfer to any Herzing University campus. Since Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, students should be able to transfer credits in the same manner as they transfer credits earned at any other regionally accredited institution. The application included language from the college catalog explaining transferability and stating that the student should check with the school to which they wish to transfer. F. Whether such institution and, when appropriate, the programs, are fully accredited, or seeking accreditation, by an accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education

Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and has been fully accredited since 2004. The next reaffirmation of credit is scheduled for 2015-16. There is no programmatic accreditation available specifically for chiropractic technician. The Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE) only accredits institutions offering the Doctor of Chiropractic degree. G. The institution’s policies and procedures related to students, including, but not limited to, recruiting and admissions practices The undergraduate catalog was provided. Page references were identified for admissions criteria and procedures, graduation requirements, grading policy, academic warning and probation, standards of satisfactory academic progress, and refund policy. Committee Recommendation: Approve the modification to the recurrent authorization to operate for Herzing University (dba Omaha School of Massage and Healthcare of Herzing University) to include the AS and certificate in chiropractic technician. Reporting Requirements: Omaha School of Massage and Healthcare of Herzing University has an annual reporting requirement in place. These programs would be included in that report which is due March 15, 2014.

Committee Draft


NEW INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM PROPOSAL

Institution: University of Nebraska at Omaha

Program: Information Technology Development

Award: Undergraduate Certificate


Various programs in Information Systems and Quantitative Analysis

Proposal Received by Commission:

March 18, 2013

Proposed Start Date: Fall 2013

Description The proposed certificate is designed for students who are interested in managing the technical infrastructure of today’s organizations. It would be offered in conjunction with UNO’s sister institution, the University of Agder in Norway (UiA). The certificate could attract several different student populations: traditional undergraduate students working toward a baccalaureate degree who want acknowledgment of additional expertise; students with an associate degree who want additional education but who are not interested in a baccalaureate degree; and working professionals seeking professional development or who want acknowledgment of additional expertise. The global aspect of the curriculum could be a special draw for students working in or planning to work in businesses with international components. The certificate would require a minimum of 14 semester credit hours comprised of a four course sequence, all 3000 (junior) or 4000 (senior) level courses. UiA would offer a five credit course in resource operations (network administration). The remaining three courses would be existing Information Systems and Quantitative Analysis courses from UNO, including database administration, security administration, and technical systems administration. There are prerequisites on all of the UNO courses, most of them junior level. Therefore, students who hold an associate degree and enroll only to earn the certificate, would likely need to take additional courses beyond the four identified in order to meet the pre-requisites. Consistent with Institutional Role and Mission? ___√__ YES* ______ NO Consistent with Statewide Comprehensive Plan? ___√__ YES ______ NO *LB 637, signed by the Governor on May 4, 2011, changed the language of the role and mission statutes of the Nebraska community colleges to allow four-year institutions to offer undergraduate certificates above the associate degree level. Correspondingly, the bill also changed the University of Nebraska role and mission statutes to allow the University to offer certificates if the preponderance of courses comprising the certificate are above the associate degree level.

Committee Draft


REVIEW CRITERIA A. Need for the Program

UNO cites the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ projections for employment in occupations related to IT administration and development. Employment is expected to grow significantly between 2008 and 2018 with projected

growth of 20% for database administrators and systems analysts. The source used by UNO represents national figures. Commission staff consulted the Nebraska Department of Labor for local information. For IT positions requiring a bachelor’s degree, in the Omaha area there are well over 200 estimated annual openings with salaries around $75,000 per year. For computer support specialists, requiring a post-secondary certificate, there are 84 estimated openings in Omaha with an average salary of $41,829. The number of openings for people holding this undergraduate certificate should be similar to the number of openings for these IT positions, with average salaries between the two cited. B. Demand for the Program

UNO conducted a survey of undergraduate students in the College of Information Science and Technology. Of the 41 respondents, 80% indicated they would be interested in taking this certificate program. The

projected enrollment of 10 to 20 students the first year is based on the survey, the number of students in the undergraduate information systems program, and the success of graduate certificates in the college. Commission staff believes that the lower end of this estimate is reasonable. C. Avoidance of Unnecessary Duplication

Since statutory language has barred public four-year institutions from offering undergraduate certificates until the passage of LB 637 in 2011, there are no public institutions offering similar programs.

D. Resources: Faculty/Staff

All courses are already in place, so no new faculty would be needed. While the certificate will likely result in an increase in enrollments in the existing courses, UNO believes that the increase can be accommodated

within the current course scheduling. The development of online versions of the existing courses, however, requires additional faculty time. UNO has received a grant from Online Worldwide to fund the course development. The proposal states that UiA has received a similar grant for the same purpose. E. Resources: Physical Facilities/Equipment No new facilities or equipment would be needed since the program would utilize existing courses without additional course sections. F. Resources: Library/Information Access No additional resources would be needed since the program would utilize existing courses which presumably have sufficient informational resources in place.

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G. Budget

PROJECTED COSTS AND ANTICIPATED REVENUES FOR THE FIRST FIVE YEARS As reported by UNO

PROJECTED COSTS* ANTICIPATED REVENUES Faculty and Staff Reallocated Funds General Operating New State Funds Library New Local Funds Facilities Tuition and Fees $193,190 Equipment Other Five-Year TOTAL $0 Five-Year TOTAL $193,190

* No additional personnel or operating expenses are required as the certificate is based exclusively on existing courses and existing faculty.

Committee Comment: Online Worldwide and the University of Agder support this program. It also requires few additional resources to implement and will give students a broader world perspective. Program review reports for information systems programs at UNO are due June 30, 2014. While the program will still be new at that time, UNO can report the number of students enrolled and perhaps even completed in the first semester or possibly the first two semesters. Committee Recommendation: Approve First Program Review Date: Due June 30, 2014

Committee Draft


NEW INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM PROPOSAL

Institution: Southeast Community College (SCC)

Program: Fire and Emergency Services Management

Award: Certificate


AAS in Fire Protection Technology

Proposal Received by Commission:

April 18, 2013

Proposed Start Date: October 2013

Description The proposed certificate program is designed to meet the requirements of the National Fire Protection Association Standard for Fire Officer Professional Qualifications, Level I for a fire/EMS company officer. It would also support career advancement based on the National Fire Academy’s Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education professional development model. The certificate would be considered an “add-on” by SCC, i.e., it is not part of a program that leads to a degree. Students with an associate degree or those already working in the field without an academic credential would be eligible to enroll. Students would be required to demonstrate competency at the Firefighter II level for admission and have completed two courses: Building Construction for Fire Protection and Fire Protection Systems. Since the target population is primarily working professionals, to accommodate work schedules the program would be offered on a part-time basis and in a hybrid format (either online or online with some face-to-face). The certificate would require 18 quarter credit hours (12 semester credit hours) comprised of three courses in fire and emergency services management and one course in English composition. Two of the three fire courses would be new, and all would need to be developed for hybrid and online delivery. Consistent with Institutional Role and Mission? ___√__ YES ______ NO Consistent with Statewide Comprehensive Plan? ___√__ YES ______ NO REVIEW CRITERIA A. Need for the Program

SCC conducted a needs survey of area fire departments, graduates of the AAS program in Fire Protection Technology, and program instructors. Thirty-seven (95%) of the responding departments supported a certificate

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program at the college. Training is required by 64% of the departments for a company officer position. Most provide on-the-job training, but 82% also provide financial assistance for education. In addition, SCC reports that the advisory board for the Fire Protection Technology program has requested this educational opportunity for personnel at Nebraska volunteer and career fire and emergency services organizations. Local fire departments already have company officers who have obtained training elsewhere (if required) or been trained internally. The need is being met to some extent, but there are company officers who would like to receive the training and fire departments who would like to have training provided by an outside entity. B. Demand for the Program

Fifty-three graduates responded to the survey (see Section A.) Of those, 34 (64%) expressed interest in a certificate program; 18 were already employed as a company officer.

SCC projects 20 students in the first three years of the program and 40 in years four and five. IPEDS data indicates that for the most recent five years for which data is available, the average number of graduates from the AAS in Fire Protection Technology at SCC was 32. Between recent graduates and currently employed fire fighters, there should be sufficient enrollment for a viable program.

The Nebraska Department of Labor web site does not list fire “company officer” in its occupations. However, “Municipal Fire Fighting and Prevention Supervisors” are listed, with an average annual salary of $66,622. C. Avoidance of Unnecessary Duplication

There are no certificate programs of this type in Nebraska. SCC reports that articulation discussions are underway with UNO to transfer one of the required fire courses to the Bachelor of General Studies with an area

of concentration in Fire Services Management. D. Resources: Faculty/Staff

SCC reports that they currently have two Fire Protection and Technology faculty and several adjuncts who would develop and teach the new curriculum. The college plans to utilize the expertise of the advisory

committee for the Fire Protection Technology program to provide input on the curriculum, workforce needs, continuing education, and recruitment. Since the courses would be offered on a part-time basis, the current faculty should be able to handle the teaching assignments. E. Resources: Physical Facilities/Equipment

The program is designed to prepare company officers who already have fire fighting skills. This allows the coursework to be offered online or in hybrid format (combination online and face-to-face). SCC states that any

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face-to-face components would be offered on one Saturday or two evenings on the Lincoln campus. If there are sufficient numbers of students in one geographic area, classes would be offered at facilities in fire stations outside Lincoln. F. Resources: Library/Information Access

SCC states that students would have access to all equipment, technical, and resource information. Since an AAS program is already in place, the majority of resources should already be available.

There are no funds specifically budgeted for library/information resources, although there are a few hundred dollars budgeted each year for unidentified “Additional Other Expenses.” G. Budget SCC states that through the college’s regular budgeting process the program will be adequately funded.

PROJECTED COSTS AND ANTICIPATED REVENUES FOR THE FIRST FIVE YEARS As reported by SCC

PROJECTED COSTS ANTICIPATED REVENUES Faculty and Staff $48,280 Reallocated Funds General Operating New State Funds New Local Funds Tuition and Fees * $102,060 Other $1,500 Other Five-Year TOTAL $49,780 Five-Year TOTAL $102,060

*Based on 20 students completing 13.5 credit hours over three quarters at $54 per credit hour (years 1-3) and 40 students completing 13.5 hours in years 4 and 5. Committee Recommendation: Approve First Program Review Date: Due June 30, 2016

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Information Items (All items listed are for Metropolitan Community College)

A. Reasonable and Moderate Extension

1. Liberal Arts/Academic Transfer – Language Studies 2. Communications and Humanities – Global Perspectives 3. Communications and Humanities – Professional Communication

B. Program Name Changes

1. Effective with the 2013-14 Catalog, Specialist Diploma award is changed to Career Certificate

2. Horticulture to Horticulture, Land Systems, and Management

3. Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Heating Technology to Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration

4. Residential Energy Management (Weatherization) to Home Energy Professional (Weatherization)

5. Lead Safe Practices to Soil Remediation

6. Culinary Arts and Management – ManageFirst to Restaurant Leadership – ManageFirst

7. Emergency Medical Technician – Paramedic to Paramedicine

8. Professional Health Studies – Emergency Medical Technician – Paramedic to Professional Health Studies – Paramedicine

9. Microcomputer Technology to Information Technology Technician (with the following options)

• Data Center Technician • Network Technician • Security Technician • Server Technician • Web Author

10. Microcomputer Technology – Transitional Object-Oriented Programming to Information Technology – Transitional Object-Oriented Programming

11. Information Technology – Desktop Specialist to Information Technology – Desktop Support Specialist

12. Photography – General Commercial to Photography

C. Program Merger

1. Merged Electronic Imaging & Media Arts and Graphic Communication Arts into Design, Interactivity and Media Arts

D. Program Additions and Changes

1. Added Design, Interactivity and Media Arts AAS concentrations: • Graphic Design • Illustration • Media Generalist • Motion Graphics • Web Design


2. Added Horticulture, Land Systems and Management AAS options: • Grounds Management • Landscape Design • Small Market Farming

3. Added Horticulture certificate of achievement 4. Added Horticulture career certificates:

• Landscape Design • Nursery and Landscape Design • Nursery and Landscape Management • Small Market Farming

5. Added Industrial and Commercial Trades – Lead Abatement career certificate 6. Added Industrial and Commercial Trades – Healthy Homes certificate of achievement:

• Lead Abatement • Residential Energy Management

7. Information Technology and E-Learning – changed Embedded Systems Technology AAS to an AAS option under Information Technology

E. Program Deletions

1. Applied Technology • Information Transport System (specialist diploma) • Trades Foundation – Welding (specialist diploma)

2. Business • Benefit Specialist (certificate of achievement) • Legal Assistant – Commercial Law (associate degree) • Legal Assistant – Family Law (associate degree) • Legal Assistant – Litigation (associate degree) • Merchandising Management (specialist diploma)

3. Culinary Arts • Baking and Pastry Foundations (specialist diploma) • Culinary Arts and Management – Chef’s Apprenticeship (specialist diploma) • Culinary Arts and Management – Culinary Competition (specialist diploma) • Culinary Arts and Management – Culinary Entrepreneurship (specialist diploma) • Culinary Arts and Management – Culinary Management (specialist diploma) • Hospitality and Restaurant Leadership – Food and Beverage Transfer (associate

degree option under Hospitality and Restaurant Leadership) • Hospitality and Restaurant Leadership – Lodging, Convention and Meeting

Planning (associate degree option under Hospitality and Restaurant Leadership) • Hospitality and Restaurant Leadership – Small Business Practices in Hospitality

(associate degree option under Hospitality and Restaurant Leadership) • Specialization in Bakery (specialist diploma) • Specialization in Culinary Management (specialist diploma) • Specialization in Service (specialist diploma)

4. Foundations for Academic Success and Community Services • Chemical Dependency Ed (specialist diploma) • General Human Services Ed (specialist diploma)

5. Languages and Visual Arts • American Sign Language – Pre-Interpreter Program (cert. of achievement) • Electronic Imaging and Media Arts – 2-D Animation (cert. of achievement) • Electronic Imaging and Media Arts – 3-D Animation (cert. of achievement)


• Electronic Imaging and Media Arts – Design for Interactive Learning (cert. of achievement)

• Electronic Imaging and Media Arts – Electronic Illustration (cert. of achievement) • Digital Photography (cert. of achievement) • Photography – General Still (cert. of achievement) • Video/Audio Communication Arts – Screenwriting (specialist diploma)

6. Information Technology and E-Learning • Information Technology – E-Commerce (associate degree option) • Information Technology – Helpdesk (associate degree option) • IBM i Systems (cert. of achievement) • Call Center Specialist (cert. of achievement) • Microcomputer Office Basics (specialist diploma) • Call Center Operations (specialist diploma) • Microcomputer Technology – Network Security and Computer Forensics

(specialist diploma) • Microcomputer Technology – Microcomputer Support Specialist • Microcomputer Technology – Helpdesk Support Specialist • Microcomputer Office Professional • Information Technology – Networking Technology (AAS option) • Cisco Certified Network Professional (specialist diploma) • Cisco Wireless Infrastructure (specialist diploma) • IT Professional Enhancement (specialist diploma) • Microsoft Networking (specialist diploma) • Helpdesk Support (cert. of achievement) • Network Technology (cert. of achievement) • Web Support (cert. of achievement) • Administrative Assistant (associate degree) • Medical Records Technician (specialist diploma)

7. Health and Public Services • Criminal Justice – Nebraska Law Enforcement (associate degree) • Community Emergency Management for Responders (specialist diploma) • Emergency Management for EMT’s (specialist diploma)

8. Horticulture • Horticulture AAS Landscaping option • Horticulture – General (cert. of achievement) • Horticulture – Urban Agriculture (cert. of achievement) • Horticulture – Arboriculture (specialist diploma) • Horticulture – Floriculture (specialist diploma) • Horticulture – Landscape and Grounds Management (specialist diploma) • Horticulture – Landscaping (specialist diploma) • Horticulture – Nursery Management (specialist diploma) • Horticulture – Organic Gardening (specialist diploma) • Horticulture – Professional Landscape Design (specialist diploma)

9. Transfer/General Studies • Liberal Arts/Academic Transfer – Spanish (AA) • Liberal Arts/Academic Transfer – Humanities/Social Sciences (cert. of

achievement) • Liberal Arts/Academic Transfer – Math/Science (cert. of achievement)

CCPE Form 92-51 Revised 03/05/1996

Committee Draft June 5, 2013

Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education Capital Construction Project Evaluation Form

Institution/Campus: Northeast Community College / Norfolk Campus Project Name: Applied Technology Education & Training Facility Date of Governing Board Approval: May 12, 2013 Date Complete Proposal Received: May 15, 2013 Date of Commission Evaluation: June 13, 2013

Northeast Community College Area – Norfolk Campus Estimated Total Unduplicated Headcount Enrollment*

AY 2007-08 AY 2008-09 AY 2009-10 AY 2010-11 AY 2011-12 Credit 5,083 4,909 4,951 4,951 4,760

Noncredit 12,156 12,439 12,182 12,182 9,760 Total 17,239 17,348 17,133 16,880 14,520

∗ Sources: NECC Institutional Research 2011-12 Enrollment Report and 2012 CCPE Supplemental Forms (used to estimate a percentage of enrollment located at the Norfolk Campus).

Project Description: Northeast Community College is proposing to construct a 66,613 gross square foot (gsf) Applied Technology Education and Training facility to support the Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Building Construction, Electromechanical, Electrical Construction and Control, and a portion of the Wind Energy Technology programs. The new facility would be located on the north portion of NECC’s main Norfolk Campus as shown below:

The proposed project would completely relocate programs from the Building Construction and Arlo Wirth buildings and a portion of the Weller building, totaling about 36,419 gsf. The existing

Proposed New Applied Technology

Education & Training Facility

Existing ECC/ELMC Facility

Existing Building Construction

Facility

Existing HVAC location

Committee Draft June 5, 2013 (NECC-Norfolk / Applied Technology Education & Training Facility

evaluation continued)

Page 2 CCPE Form 92-51 Revised 03/05/1996

facilities were all constructed in the early 1970’s and are in fair to good condition. The existing spaces would be used as follows: The Building Construction facility (6,785 gsf) would be considered for demolition or repurposing after completion of a cost/benefit analysis study. HVAC program space in the basement of the Weller Building would be utilized to store Auto Body and Auto Technology program vehicles and components that are currently stored outside. A classroom used by the HVAC program would be rescheduled for use by other academic programs. Approximately 12,105 gsf of pre-engineered metal additions to the Arlo Wirth Building (21,539 gsf) would be considered for demolition pending completion of a cost/benefit analysis study, with remaining classroom space made available for existing program needs.

The new facility would include classrooms, faculty offices, labs for hands-on training, lab support areas including a fabrication/tool room, storage areas, and a student lounge/study area to serve over 200 students in the five programs. The project would include a 189 stall parking lot and four concrete pads for use in building homes by students in the building trades programs. A separate project will construct a new campus access road to the site at an estimated cost of $600,000.

The college is estimating a total project cost of $9,156,672 ($137.46/gsf) with capital improvement property tax levy funds from the Capital Improvement Fund proposed as the source of funding. The college is estimating an increase in facility operating and maintenance (O&M) costs of $201,797 ($3.03/gsf/year) with General Operating Funds as the source of funding.

1. The proposed project demonstrates compliance and

consistency with the Comprehensive Statewide Plan, including the institutional role and mission assignment.

Comments: Page 1-7 of the Commission's Comprehensive Statewide Plan for Postsecondary Education states: “Nebraska public institutions are accountable to the State for making wise use of resources for programs, services, and facilities as well as for avoiding unnecessary duplication.” This project would provide an efficient use of facilities to meet the needs of the five applied technology programs.

Page 3-1 of the Plan outlines the following major statewide goal regarding workforce development: “Higher education in Nebraska will be responsive to the workforce development and ongoing training needs of employers and industries to help sustain a knowledgeable, trained, and skilled workforce in both rural and urban areas of the state.” The NECC Norfolk Campus Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Building Construction (BC), Electromechanical (ELMC),

Yes No




Electrical Construction and Control (ECC), and Wind Energy Technology programs responds directly to workforce development and training needs of employers in the region.

Page 7-7 of the Plan outlines the community colleges’ role and mission and states: “Community colleges provide educational options for students seeking entry-level career training. The education program may culminate in an applied technology associate degree, diploma, or certificate; or an associate of arts or associate of science degree from an academic transfer program.” Space associated with this project would affect Northeast Community College’s HVAC, BC, ELMC, ECC, and Wind Energy Technology programs. Each of these programs offers an associate of applied science degree. The Wind Energy Technology also offers a diploma.


consistency with the Statewide Facilities Plan.

Comments: This proposal generally demonstrates compliance and consistency with the Commission's Statewide Facilities Plan as outlined in the following criteria.

Yes No

2.A The proposed project includes only new or existing academic programs approved by the Commission.

Comments: The NECC Building Construction, Electromechanical Technology, and Electrical Construction and Control programs were last approved for continuation by the Commission’s Executive Director and reported to the Commission on December 7, 2006. NECC’s Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program was last approved for continuation by the Commission’s Executive Director and reported to the Commission on April 12, 2012. The Commission reviews all existing academic programs on a seven-year review cycle. Award options approved for continuation included: • Building Construction – Associate of Applied Science

degree

Yes No




• Electromechanical Technology – Associate of Applied Science degree

• Electrical Construction and Control – Associate of Applied Science degree

• Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration – Associate of Applied Science degree

The Commission approved a new NECC Wind Energy Technology program with a Diploma on April 16, 2009. The Commission later approved a new Associate of Applied Science degree for the Wind Energy Technology program on July 21, 2011.

2.B Degree that the project demonstrates compliance with

the governing-board-approved institutional comprehensive facilities plan.

Comments: The Northeast Community College 2010 Master Facilities Plan was approved by the NECC Board of Governors on May 12, 2011. Section 2, page 1 identifies the need for a new Construction Technology Building. The Plan states that “This would be a new building for the Building Construction, Electrical, and Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning programs. This new building would also have room for the foundations for the student house projects.” The Plan also stated “The current Building Construction building would be demolished or possibly used temporarily for requested storage for NRD [Natural Resource District] until that location is needed for further campus growth and development. Other programs are also mentioned to include “Consideration will be given for other related programs such as Welding, Electromechanical, Wind Energy, etc. once funding sources are established.” The Electromechanical and Wind Energy programs have been included in the proposed project.

Section 2, page 3 of the Plan outlines that after the HVAC program is relocated into a new building, that the Auto Body program would utilize the vacated space on the lower level of the addition.

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Section 2, page 4 of the Plan states that the pre-engineered portions of the Arlo Wirth Building would be demolished and Electromechanical and Wind Energy could expand into the space vacated by Electrical.

2.C Degree that the project addresses existing facility

rehabilitation needs as represented in a facilities audit report or program statement.

Comments: Existing spaces for these programs are in fair to good condition as outlined in the program statement:

Building Construction – This facility is in fair condition with original heating, ventilating and plumbing and sprayed insulation in need of replacement. This space could be demolished thereby eliminating the need to make repairs.

Weller Building – The Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program space is in generally good condition.

Arlo Wirth Building – The Electrical, Electromechanical and Wind Energy spaces are in generally good condition although the HVAC system has been reported to be unstable with significant down time happening more frequently. The pre-engineered portions of this building could potentially be demolished reducing the cost of repairing or replacing the HVAC system.

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2.D Degree that project justification is due to inadequate quality of the existing facility because of functional deficiencies and is supported through externally documented reports (accreditation reports, program statements, etc.).

Comments: Existing spaces for these programs have several functional deficiencies as outlined in the program statement:

Building Construction – The building dust collection system is undersized and does not adequately collect dust to keep a clean learning lab. HVAC equipment does not provide adequate climate control of classroom and lab

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spaces. The one unisex restroom in the facility does not meet current accessibility standards.

Weller Building – The Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration labs do not have adequate floor drains for the residual fluids that are released from the many air conditioning and refrigeration units used by students. Lack of exterior wall space also makes it difficult to ventilate exhaust from the labs air conditioning and refrigeration units.

Arlo Wirth Building – Functional deficiencies related to the Electrical, Electromechanical and Wind Energy spaces are primarily related to a lack of space for specific lab functions that creates unsafe conditions from overcrowding.

2.E Degree that the amount of space required to meet

programmatic needs is justified by application of space/land guidelines and utilization reports.

Comments: The types of lab space proposed for the new facility are not readily applicable to standard space guidelines. Each of the laboratories proposed would be utilized to meet specific needs associated with each applied technology program. Square footages for various room types were calculated based on a proposed layout of the new spaces and equipment.

Eight existing classrooms are used by these five programs in the Building Construction, Weller and Arlo Wirth buildings. These classrooms were scheduled an average of 23.3 hours per week. The proposed new facility would also have eight classrooms for these programs. Six of the eight existing classrooms would be available for general academic use by other campus programs. The two existing classrooms in the Building Construction facility would either be demolished or renovated for another campus purpose.

Eight existing class laboratories used by these five programs were scheduled an average of 25.1 hours per week. The proposed new facility would also have eight

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class laboratories which would be of sufficient size to safely accommodate all of the equipment needs of these programs. Existing class laboratories used by these programs would likely be demolished or reused for other campus needs such as storage (Auto Body and Auto Technology) as determined by a cost/benefit study.

2.F Degree that the amount of space required to meet

specialized programmatic needs is justified by professional planners and/or externally documented reports.

Comments: The program statement indicates that several criteria were used in determining square footage requirements to include reviewing the size and adequacy of existing spaces and the occupancy, furniture and equipment requirements of each space. Lab and classroom exercises required to support the curriculum were also reviewed to determine the area needed to deliver instruction in a safe and efficient manner.

Examples of this include increasing the size of HVAC lab space to accommodate existing lab equipment stored outside and new geothermal equipment that is now available. A second example is creating sufficient lab space to separate conduit bending from programmable logic control training lab space.

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2.G Ability of the project to fulfill currently established needs and projected enrollment and/or program growth requirements.

Comments: Enrollment in each of the five programs included in this proposal has been relatively steady or increasing from Academic Year (AY) 2008 through 2012. Included on the following page is the five-year headcount (HC) and full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollment range for each of these programs.

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Range of Full-Year Enrollments (low – high) by Program for AY 2008 through AY 2012

Program HC FTE

Building Construction 42 – 50 39.3 – 50.7

Electrical Construction 51 – 74 72.3 – 90.1

Electromechanical 35 – 50 38.9 – 51.4

Heating, Ventilating & AC 18 – 30 18.6 – 32.6

Wind Energy (3-years) 21 – 32 17.0 – 29.4 Demand for Building Construction graduates is projected to follow the increase in housing starts, increasing 9.4% nationally based on Department of Labor projections for 2008 to 2018. Demand for Electrical Construction graduates is projected to increase 39.9% nationally based on Department of Labor projections for 2008 to 2018. The college states that demand for Electromechanical graduates by manufacturing and industry is also high. Demand for HVAC technicians is projected to increase 43.7% nationally based on Department of Labor projections for 2008 to 2018. While the Wind Energy program is only three years old, enrollment has increased in each year. The college states that demand for wind energy service technicians is projected to grow substantially over the next ten years.

2.H The need for future projects and/or operating and

maintenance costs are within the State's ability to fund them, or evidence is presented that the institution has a sound plan to address these needs and/or costs.

Comments: The college would have sufficient funds in the future to demolish or renovate and repurpose spaces vacated by the five programs in this proposed project. Increasing the allowable capital construction property tax levy limit from 1.0¢ to 2.0¢ per $100 property valuation effective in FY 2014 would increase revenue for the Capital Improvement Fund by more than $2 million

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annually.

The new facility would also require increased facility operating and maintenance (O&M) costs for the college that would be drawn from general operating funds. The increased O&M costs associated with the new facility should be within the college’s general operating fund’s budget capacity given existing levy limits.

2.I Evidence is provided that this project is the best of all

known and reasonable alternatives.

Comments: The college considered three alternatives for the programs associated with this proposed project. The first alternative would maintain programs in their current locations, which was rejected by the college due to limitations available to renovate and expand space for these programs. The second alternative would construct a new facility for the building trades programs only, which was rejected by the college as it would require duplication of electrical and electromechanical equipment in two separate facilities. The third alternative would construct a new facility as proposed for the five programs. This alternative provides the college with additional flexibility with the use of vacated spaces to meet existing or new program needs.

High . . . . . . . . . . Low

2.J Degree that the project would enhance institutional effectiveness/efficiencies with respect to programs and/or costs.

Comments: The proposed project would not provide cost efficiencies. However, the proposed project would expand and improve space for the five applied technology programs associated with this proposed project. The proposed project would enhance the ability of these programs to adequately serve students.

High . . . . . . . . . . Low




2.K Degree that the amount of requested funds is justified for the project and does not represent an insufficient or extraordinary expenditure of resources.

Comments: Construction Costs - The college’s estimate for construction of a new applied technology facility is $9,156,672 ($145.95/gsf). Commission staff’s estimate of the total project cost is $9,549,800 ($152.21/gsf) for construction of vocational school space per R.S. Means Square Foot Costs modified to account for local conditions. The college’s estimate is $393,130 (4.1%) lower than Commission staff’s estimate for the project. The primary difference between these estimates is in the contingency costs in which Commission staff provides a five percent project contingency for new construction. These costs do not include funding for a green energy and industrial manufacturing grants that will provide an estimated $411,500 in new equipment that would be located in the new facility.

Operating and Maintenance Costs - The college is estimating an increase in ongoing facility operating and maintenance (O&M) costs of $201,796 per year ($3.22/gsf/year) to support the new facility. Commission staff’s estimate to provide ongoing facility O&M for this project is $199,600 per year ($3.18/gsf/year). The college’s estimate is $2,200 (1.1%) higher than Commission staff’s estimate. The primary difference between these estimates is in building maintenance costs.

High . . . . . . . . . . Low

2.L Source(s) of funds requested are appropriate for the project.

Comments: The Commission believes that the college’s proposed use of capital improvement property tax levy funds to construct instructional space is appropriate.

NECC had a Capital Improvement Fund balance of $3,818,370 as of June 30, 2012. The college presently collects 1.0¢ per $100 property valuation for the Capital Improvement Fund, which is the maximum capital

High . . . . . . . . . . Low




improvement levy limit allowed by statute. NECC estimates that the capital improvement levy will generate about $1.93 million in the current fiscal year.

The Legislature passed LB 946 in 2012, which increases the allowable capital construction property tax levy limit from 1.0¢ to 2.0¢ per $100 property valuation effective in FY 2014. However, the combined operating and capital improvement levies shall not exceed the current maximum of 11.25¢ per $100 property valuation. LB 946 also permits community colleges to collect and use facilities fees for capital construction projects.

NECC is projecting that the college will begin collecting 2.0¢ per $100 property valuation for the Capital Improvement Fund beginning in FY 2014. The college estimates that the increased capital improvement levy will generate about $4.39 million in FY 2014 and $4.65 million in FY 2015 when this project is scheduled for completion.

In addition to the capital improvement property tax levy collected by the college, NECC also collects an $8.50/credit hour Facilities Fee (maximum 18 credit hours). A majority of this fee is being used to finance bonds issued by the NECC Facilities Corporation for a new Welcome Center. NECC estimates that net revenue of $282,000 will be generated in the current fiscal year after Facilities Corporation bond payments have been made.

Upon financing both this proposed project, the proposed Physical Plant Building, and a new campus access road, the college estimates that it would have $1,137,000 available in the Capital Improvement Fund over the next two fiscal years for other projects. This provides minimal funding to meet ongoing maintenance/repair needs for other campus facilities during the next two years.




3. The proposed project demonstrates that it is not an unnecessary duplication of facilities.

Comments: The college has demonstrated that this project would not unnecessarily duplicate instructional space on Northeast Community College’s Norfolk Campus.

Yes No

3.A Degree that the project increases access and/or serves valid needs considering the existence of other available and suitable facilities.

Comments: The types of laboratory space needs for this proposal are unique to the five applied technology programs and are not suitable for use by other campus academic programs. Insufficient existing laboratory space for these five programs has limited enrollments in programs that are projecting a growing employment demand.

A combination of demolition and/or repurposing of existing facilities vacated by the five programs could potentially meet a shortfall of space for other campus programs as determined by the college.

High . . . . . . . . . . Low

COMMISSION ACTION AND COMMENTS:

Action: Pursuant to the Nebraska Revised Statutes (2008), Section 85-1414, the Budget, Construction and Financial Aid Committee of the Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education recommends approval of Northeast Community College’s proposal to construct an Applied Technology Education and Training Facility on the Norfolk Campus as outlined in the program statement dated May 9, 2013 and supplemental information provided.

Comments: This program would combine related applied technology programs together in a single facility with adequate space to meet current and projected needs. Existing spaces vacated by these programs will be considered for demolition or renovation and repurposing by other campus programs. Considering past and projected campus enrollment that would

Approve Disapprove




likely not see substantial, if any, increase in the near future, the Commission encourages NECC to carefully consider the need for all of the vacated spaces and the associated costs for renovation and ongoing operations and maintenance.

This approval is based upon the Commission’s understanding that this project would be financed from statutorily authorized capital improvement property tax levy funds in accordance with the Nebraska Office of the Attorney General’s opinion dated July 11, 2011. NECC has the property tax levy limit capacity to increase the allowable capital construction property tax levy limit from 1.0¢ to 2.0¢ per $100 property valuation effective in FY 2014 that would be needed to finance this project. The combined operating and capital improvement levies would not exceed the maximum allowable limit of 11.25¢ per $100 property valuation.

CCPE Form 92-51 Revised 03/05/1996


Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education Capital Construction Project Evaluation Form

Institution/Campus: Northeast Community College / Norfolk Campus Project Name: Physical Plant Building Date of Governing Board Approval: May 12, 2013 Date Complete Proposal Received: May 15, 2013 Date of Commission Evaluation: June 13, 2013

Northeast Community College Area – Norfolk Campus Estimated Total Unduplicated Headcount Enrollment*

AY 2007-08 AY 2008-09 AY 2009-10 AY 2010-11 AY 2011-12 Credit 5,083 4,909 4,951 4,951 4,760

Noncredit 12,156 12,439 12,182 12,182 9,760 Total 17,239 17,348 17,133 16,880 14,520

∗ Sources: NECC Institutional Research 2011-12 Enrollment Report and 2012 CCPE Supplemental Forms (used to estimate a percentage of enrollment located at the Norfolk Campus).

Project Description: Northeast Community College is proposing to construct a 36,356 gross square foot (gsf) Physical Plant facility to consolidate Maintenance, Custodial, Grounds, Safety/Security, Motor Pool, and Shipping and Receiving functions. The new facility would be located on the north portion of NECC’s main Norfolk Campus as shown below:

The proposed project would completely relocate functions from the Maintenance and Shipping & Receiving buildings and a portion of the Weller building, totaling about 15,601 gsf. The existing facilities were all constructed in the early 1970’s and are in fair condition. The existing spaces would be used as follows: The Maintenance Building (9,600 gsf) would be renovated to allow for

Existing Shipping & Receiving

Building

Existing custodial storage location

Proposed New Physical Plant

Building

Existing Maintenance Building

Existing Building #45 leased facility


(NECC-Norfolk / Physical Plant Building evaluation continued)


relocating an expanded Welding program from the Weller Building. The Shipping & Receiving Building (5,041 gsf) would be utilized for general storage as needed. Custodial storage space in the basement mechanical room of the Weller Building would be returned to its original use as mechanical space. The current lease for Building #45 near campus would be retained for use as surplus equipment storage and auction space.

The new facility would include shop, warehouse and office space for the campus physical plant departments. The project would include 62 parking spaces for motor pool vehicles, staff and visitors. A separate project will construct a new campus access road to the site at an estimated cost of $600,000.

The college is estimating a total project cost of $4,865,394 ($133.92/gsf) with capital improvement property tax levy funds from the Capital Improvement Fund proposed as the source of funding. The college is estimating an increase in facility operating and maintenance (O&M) costs of $92,324 ($2.54/gsf/year) with General Operating Funds as the source of funding.


consistency with the Comprehensive Statewide Plan, including the institutional role and mission assignment.

Comments: Page 1-7 of the Commission's Comprehensive Statewide Plan for Postsecondary Education states: “Nebraska public institutions are accountable to the State for making wise use of resources for programs, services, and facilities as well as for avoiding unnecessary duplication.” This project would provide an effective use of facilities to meet the needs of campus physical plant functions.

This proposal is not directly applicable to NECC’s role and mission assignment as it serves as a supporting role to campus operations.

Yes No

2. The proposed project demonstrates compliance and consistency with the Statewide Facilities Plan.

Comments: This proposal generally demonstrates compliance and consistency with the Commission's Statewide Facilities Plan as outlined in the following criteria.

Yes No




2.A The proposed project includes only new or existing academic programs approved by the Commission.

Comments: Not directly applicable to this proposal to construct a new Physical Plant Building.

Yes No

2.B Degree that the project demonstrates compliance with the governing-board-approved institutional comprehensive facilities plan.

Comments: The Northeast Community College 2010 Master Facilities Plan was approved by the NECC Board of Governors on May 12, 2011. Section 2, page 3 identifies the need for new Maintenance, Shipping & Receiving and Motor Pool buildings.

Regarding a new Maintenance Building, the Plan identifies “A new 10,000-15,000 sq. ft. pre-engineered metal building for equipment storage as well as 2,500 sq. ft. of office space. Buildings 11, 12 and 13 would be phased and potentially include some space for Shipping and Receiving and the Motor Pool. These uses would be reconfigured, moved or expanded as additional square footage is added. The current maintenance building could be reused as additional campus storage until demolition was required for another new facility.”

Regarding a new Shipping & Receiving Building, the Plan identifies “A new partially climate controlled 10,000 -15,000 sq. ft. building. Use of a tall space would allow the incorporation of rack storage and forklifts to maximize space similar to what is currently being done in the Warehouse. The existing warehouse would be demolished. Would include 5,000 sq. ft. of custodial storage, and 5,000 sq. ft. for a wood shop in noted sq. ft. This would be connected to the new Maintenance building.”

Regarding a new Motor Pool Building, the Plan identifies “A 8,000 sq. ft. building to house the motor pool. This would be connected to the new Maintenance building.”

High . . . . . . . . . . Low




2.C Degree that the project addresses existing facility rehabilitation needs as represented in a facilities audit report or program statement.

Comments: Existing spaces for these functions are in fair condition as outlined in the program statement:

Maintenance Building – This facility is in fair condition with original electrical, heating, ventilating and plumbing and insulation in need of repair or replacement.

Shipping & Receiving Building – This facility is in fair condition with original electrical, heating and ventilating systems in need of repair or replacement.

High . . . . . . . . . . Low

2.D Degree that project justification is due to inadequate quality of the existing facility because of functional deficiencies and is supported through externally documented reports (accreditation reports, program statements, etc.).

Comments: Existing spaces for these functions have several functional deficiencies as outlined in the program statement:

Maintenance Building – The building lacks an automatic fire protection system or a fire alarm system. Wheel chair access is difficult at the main entrance. Routes through the facility and access to the restrooms do not comply with accessibility regulations. Existing shops do not provide adequate ventilation for equipment being used.

Shipping & Receiving Building – The building does not have an ADA accessible entrance, and does not have potable water or a restroom. The building lacks an automatic fire protection system or a fire alarm system and does not have adequate ventilation within the building for operation of forklift.

Weller Building (basement custodial storage) – The existing custodial space located in an existing mechanical room is only accessible to vehicles by a pedestrian sidewalk. The existing space also does not allow for the use of a forklift to store pallets of materials, requiring supplies to be broken down into smaller sizes that can be

High . . . . . . . . . . Low




handled by hand or cart.

2.E Degree that the amount of space required to meet

programmatic needs is justified by application of space/land guidelines and utilization reports.

Comments: When appropriate, the college considered University of Nebraska Space Guidelines in determining the amount of space proposed for this project. Applicable space guidelines for office, shop and stores space would apply to this proposed project.

While individual office spaces conform to space guidelines, the number of offices provided exceeds the number of offices provided at other campus physical plant facilities at Chadron, Peru and Wayne State Colleges for maintenance/grounds staff. Commission staff is not aware of other colleges that provide dedicated office space for nonsupervisory maintenance/grounds staff.

University Space Guidelines provide recommended maintenance and grounds shop space needs based on campus square footage and acres maintained. Stores space for shipping and receiving is based on campus student headcount. Using the University Space Guidelines for NECC, these functions would need 18,100 assignable square feet compared to 19,468 assignable square feet included in the proposed project.

High . . . . . . . . . . Low

2.F Degree that the amount of space required to meet specialized programmatic needs is justified by professional planners and/or externally documented reports.

Comments: The program statement indicates that several criteria were used in determining square footage requirements to include reviewing the size and adequacy of existing spaces and the occupancy, furniture and equipment requirements of each space. Recommendations by the project architect and a review of program space needs were also considered by the college.

Several examples were provided in the program

High . . . . . . . . . . Low




statement. There is currently a lack of separate conference and plan/work room spaces for the Physical Plant administrative staff. The existing shipping & receiving warehouse does not provide sufficient aisle space to navigate a forklift effectively. Existing shops also serve as night vehicle storage and do not provide vehicle aisle space for parking, making it difficult to reach vehicles.

2.G Ability of the project to fulfill currently established

needs and projected enrollment and/or program growth requirements.

Comments: Additional physical plant space needs resulting from any future enrollment growth and/or new capital construction projects should be easily accommodated with the proposed facility for the foreseeable future.

High . . . . . . . . . . Low

2.H The need for future projects and/or operating and maintenance costs are within the State's ability to fund them, or evidence is presented that the institution has a sound plan to address these needs and/or costs.

Comments: The college would have sufficient funds in the future to demolish or renovate and repurpose spaces vacated by the physical plant functions in this proposed project. Increasing the allowable capital construction property tax levy limit from 1.0¢ to 2.0¢ per $100 property valuation effective in FY 2014 would increase revenue for the Capital Improvement Fund by more than $2 million annually.

The new facility would also require increased facility operating and maintenance (O&M) costs for the college that would be drawn from general operating funds. The increased O&M costs associated with the new facility should be within the college’s general operating fund’s budget capacity given existing levy limits.

High . . . . . . . . . . Low




2.I Evidence is provided that this project is the best of all known and reasonable alternatives.

Comments: The college considered four alternatives for the physical plant functions associated with this proposed project. The first alternative would maintain functions in their current locations, which was rejected by the college for two reasons: 1) existing truck traffic in the middle of campus for shipping & receiving and custodial supplies creates vehicle/pedestrian conflicts, and 2) the existing physical plant facilities have renovation and expansion limitations. The second alternative considered was to outsource all physical plant functions, which was rejected by the college due to projected increased operating costs. The third alternative would construct an addition to the existing Maintenance Building, which was rejected by the college primarily to allow for the Welding program to utilize vacated space. The fourth alternative would construct a new facility as proposed. This alternative provides the college with additional flexibility with the use of vacated spaces to meet existing program needs.

High . . . . . . . . . . Low

2.J Degree that the project would enhance institutional effectiveness/efficiencies with respect to programs and/or costs.

Comments: No cost savings would be realized by this proposal. However, physical plant functions could be consolidated into a more efficient single facility with this proposed project.

High . . . . . . . . . . Low

2.K Degree that the amount of requested funds is justified for the project and does not represent an insufficient or extraordinary expenditure of resources.

Comments: Construction Costs - The college’s estimate for construction of a new physical plant facility is $4,865,394 ($133.92/gsf). Commission staff’s estimate of the total project cost is $4,909,400 ($135.13/gsf) for construction of vocational school space per R.S. Means Square Foot Costs modified to account for local conditions. The college’s estimate is $44,000 (0.9%)

High . . . . . . . . . . Low




lower than Commission staff’s estimate for the project. The primary difference between these estimates is in the contingency costs in which Commission staff provides a five percent project contingency for new construction.

Operating and Maintenance Costs - The college is estimating an increase in ongoing facility operating and maintenance (O&M) costs of $92,324 per year ($2.54/gsf/year) to support the new facility. Commission staff’s estimate to provide ongoing facility O&M for this project is $101,400 per year ($2.79/gsf/year). The college’s estimate is $9,100 (9.0%) lower than Commission staff’s estimate. The primary difference between these estimates is in building maintenance costs.

2.L Source(s) of funds requested are appropriate for the

project.

Comments: The Commission believes that the college’s proposed use of capital improvement property tax levy funds to construct institutional support space is appropriate.

NECC had a Capital Improvement Fund balance of $3,818,370 as of June 30, 2012. The college presently collects 1.0¢ per $100 property valuation for the Capital Improvement Fund, which is the maximum capital improvement levy limit allowed by statute. NECC estimates that the capital improvement levy will generate about $1.93 million in the current fiscal year.

The Legislature passed LB 946 in 2012, which increases the allowable capital construction property tax levy limit from 1.0¢ to 2.0¢ per $100 property valuation effective in FY 2014. However, the combined operating and capital improvement levies shall not exceed the current maximum of 11.25¢ per $100 property valuation. LB 946 also permits community colleges to collect and use facilities fees for capital construction projects.

NECC is projecting that the college will begin collecting 2.0¢ per $100 property valuation for the Capital Improvement Fund beginning in FY 2014. The college

High . . . . . . . . . . Low




estimates that the increased capital improvement levy will generate about $4.39 million in FY 2014 and $4.65 million in FY 2015 when this project is scheduled for completion.

In addition to the capital improvement property tax levy collected by the college, NECC also collects an $8.50/credit hour Facilities Fee (maximum 18 credit hours). A majority of this fee is being used to finance bonds issued by the NECC Facilities Corporation for a new Welcome Center. NECC estimates that net revenue of $282,000 will be generated in the current fiscal year after Facilities Corporation bond payments have been made.

Upon financing both this proposed project, the proposed Applied Technology Education & Training Facility, and a new campus access road, the college estimates that it would have $1,137,000 available in the Capital Improvement Fund over the next two fiscal years for other projects. This provides minimal funding to meet ongoing maintenance/repair needs for other campus facilities during the next two years.

3. The proposed project demonstrates that it is not an

unnecessary duplication of facilities.

Comments: The college has demonstrated that this project would not unnecessarily duplicate support space on Northeast Community College’s Norfolk Campus.

Yes No

3.A Degree that the project increases access and/or serves valid needs considering the existence of other available and suitable facilities.

Comments: One of the primary purposes of this proposed project is to consolidate campus physical plant functions scattered across campus and relocate these functions away from the core of the campus.

Repurposing of existing facilities vacated by the physical plant functions could potentially meet a shortfall of space needs from other campus programs as determined by the college.

High . . . . . . . . . . Low




COMMISSION ACTION AND COMMENTS:

Action: Pursuant to the Nebraska Revised Statutes (2008), Section 85-1414, the Budget, Construction and Financial Aid Committee of the Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education recommends approval of Northeast Community College’s proposal to construct a Physical Plant Building on the Norfolk Campus as outlined in the program statement dated May 9, 2013 and supplemental information provided.

Comments: This project would consolidate related physical plant function together in a single facility with adequate space to meet current and projected needs. A new physical plant facility located on the perimeter of campus would also alleviate much of the heavy truck traffic in the core of the campus. Existing spaces vacated by these functions will be considered for demolition or renovation and repurposing by other campus programs.

This approval is based upon the Commission’s understanding that this project would be financed from statutorily authorized capital improvement property tax levy funds in accordance with the Nebraska Office of the Attorney General’s opinion dated July 11, 2011. NECC has the property tax levy limit capacity to increase the allowable capital construction property tax levy limit from 1.0¢ to 2.0¢ per $100 property valuation effective in FY 2014 that would be needed to finance this project. The combined operating and capital improvement levies would not exceed the maximum allowable limit of 11.25¢ per $100 property valuation.

Approve Disapprove

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